I am packing. again. for the 4,158th time or so since adopting this nomadic lifestyle seven years ago. my interminable vacation is almost over and I'm leaving for australia in three days.

I flew back to buffalo last night, leaving geoffrey on his own in kars. it's just been the two of us for the last few weeks. he's up at 3:45 every morning to plant trees, and I've had until mid-afternoon to do whatever I wanted as long as it didn't require a car or other human beings. a most relaxing holiday.


but it's back to work now. no more three-hour kayak rides or banana-chocolate chip pancake feasts or last one in the water is a chickidy-chicken who has to cook dinner.


tonight was chicken wing night. tomorrow the whole country celebrates my departure with glowing displays of fireworks. they're eager to get rid of me. I've been here way too long!